Full Breakdown
The Rise of WHATMORE: A New Sound from New York City
10/18/2025, 11:11:42 AM
Formation and Musical Identity of WHATMORE
WHATMORE, a genre-defying music group formed by five members—Cisco Swank, Elijah Judah, Jackson August, Sebastiano, and Yoshi T.—originated from their shared experiences at Manhattan's LaGuardia High School. The collective describes their sound as a fusion of jazz, indie, pop, and hip-hop, which they characterize as “very New York.” This unique blend reflects the diverse musical backgrounds of its members, with influences ranging from jazz to hip-hop and indie rock.
The Debut Album and Recording Experience
The group recently released their debut album, also titled WHATMORE. The recording process took place in Pennsylvania, where they sought to capture a sound that resonates with their New York roots. Swank noted, “It’s very fluid, very New York,” emphasizing that their music embodies the essence of the city. The members believe that their individual journeys across New York—from South Brooklyn to the Upper East Side—contribute to the richness of their music.
Diverse Musical Backgrounds
Each member brings a distinct musical perspective to the group. Swank is deeply rooted in jazz, while Sebastiano and Yoshi lean towards hip-hop and alternative R&B. August identifies more with the indie guitar scene. This diversity allows them to explore and incorporate various styles into their music, creating a sound that is both eclectic and cohesive.
The Significance of New York City
New York City plays a crucial role in shaping WHATMORE's identity. The members feel that the city itself acts as a sixth member of the group, influencing their sound and lyrical themes. They express that their music is “lived in,” reflecting the experiences and stories that come from their lives in the city. This connection to New York is a recurring theme in their discussions, highlighting how their personal narratives intertwine with their artistic expression.
Official Statements & Responses
In interviews, the members have articulated their excitement about their musical journey. Sebastiano remarked, “We’ve always, always loved music and wanted to do music in life,” indicating their long-standing passion for the craft. They view their current success as a surreal blessing, underscoring their commitment to pursuing music despite life’s diversions.
Criticism & Opposition
While the group enjoys a growing fanbase, the music industry often faces scrutiny regarding the authenticity of new artists. Critics may question whether WHATMORE's genre-blending approach can resonate with traditional music audiences. However, the group remains focused on their unique sound and the stories they wish to tell through their music.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We all come from super different musical backgrounds,” — Jackson August
- “It's very fluid, very New York.” — Cisco Swank
- “The genre does kind of just feel like New York City. We all have very unique New York stories. We always talked about that just as friends. We all literally live scattered, between South Brooklyn and the Upper East Side, which covers a lot of ground in between. Everyone has their own journey.” — Jackson August
- “Life takes you on different roads, here and there. I mean, I went to college for not even music. It's just surreal, it's a blessing, and we're very excited for this journey.” — Sebastiano
WHATMORE represents a new wave of artists emerging from New York City, showcasing the vibrant and diverse musical landscape that the city fosters. Their journey reflects not only their individual talents but also the collective spirit of creativity that defines New York.
